Updates from.....

It's getting closer to graduation day, August 21, and I thought I'd share some more of the letters I get from Tom. He's been great about writing and I get pretty excited when I see his handwriting on an envelope when I reach into my mailbox. And I have to chuckle because....well, just because he makes me chuckle.
On 16 July he writes:
"One more day of firing. Tomorrow is when we have to qualify for shooting. I'm nervous - Mon, Tues, Wed, I shot great and today I shot awful...no idea why. Anyway, make sure you bring my American Eagle shorts (khaki), flip flops and some t-shirts. Also I couldn't imagine not having Maui Jim's for travel, my sunglasses...other than that my cell phone, ipod & cell phone charger. It feels good to be 5 weeks out. Hope I do ok on the rifle range. Love, Tom."

So, you can tell he misses all of his electronics and his cool sunglasses!

20 July:
"Hey Mom,
Shot well at the rifle range...earned a sharpshooter badge. Back in original squad bay. We have 3 1/2 weeks til The Crucible and 34 days until graduation. Time is flying by. I earned a leadership position. I am a squad leader - there are 3 others out of our 74 man platoon. We are starting to prep our dress uniforms. Can't believe the government pays people to do this job - it is truly enriching as it is. That's all for now. Love, Tom"

Sunflowers

I started these flowers from seeds in a large
pot on my deck. Ultimately, I had planned
on transplanting them in the yard....but I decided that the best sun was on the deck....and, of course, the deer can't get to them. The deer really limit gardening here in CT. It's fun to check the pot each morning to see how much the flowers have opened.

Forever May You Wave

Home of the Brave

Nation's Capitol